U.S. patent application number 11/644268 was filed with the patent office on 2008-05-29 for dynamically controllable, trolley brake.
Invention is credited to Eric S. Cylvick.
Application Number | 20080121132 11/644268 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 38721826 |
Filed Date | 2008-05-29 |
United States Patent
Application |
20080121132 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Cylvick; Eric S. |
May 29, 2008 |
Dynamically controllable, trolley brake
Abstract
A trolley for traveling along a cable. The trolley may include a
frame having a first end, a second end, and a rail positioned
between the first and second ends. A brake pad may connect to the
frame. A sheave mount may also connect to the frame and include a
sheave for rolling along the cable. A carriage may connect to the
frame and include a user mount for suspending a user. The carriage
may selectively travel along the rail through a continuous range of
motion to control a braking force generated by the trolley between
the brake pad and the cable.
Inventors: |
Cylvick; Eric S.; (Wanship,
UT) |
Correspondence
Address: |
PATE PIERCE & BAIRD
175 SOUTH MAIN STREET, SUITE 1250
SALT LAKE CITY
UT
84111
US
|
Family ID: |
38721826 |
Appl. No.: |
11/644268 |
Filed: |
December 21, 2006 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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11605853 |
Nov 28, 2006 |
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11644268 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
104/173.1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B61B 7/02 20130101; A62B
35/0093 20130101; A63G 21/22 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
104/173.1 |
International
Class: |
B61B 9/00 20060101
B61B009/00 |
Claims
1. A trolley for traveling along a cable, the trolley comprising: a
frame having a first end, a second end, a rail positioned between
the first and second ends; a brake pad connecting to the frame; a
sheave mount connecting to the frame and having a sheave; a
carriage having a user mount and selectively traveling along the
rail through a continuous range of motion to control a braking
force generated by the trolley; and a tether connected to the
carriage and positioned to convert a tensile load applied thereto
into a force urging the carriage substantially exclusively in a
direction parallel to the rail.
2. The trolley of claim 1, wherein the brake pad connects to the
frame proximate the first end.
3. The trolley of claim 2, wherein the sheave mount connects to the
frame at a location between the rail and the brake pad.
4. The trolley of claim 1, wherein the continuous range of motion
is bounded at one end by a first position of the carriage with
respect to the rail and at the other end by a second position of
the carriage with respect to the rail.
5. The trolley of claim 4, wherein the braking force is at a
minimum when the carriage occupies the first position.
6. The trolley of claim 5, wherein the braking force is at a
maximum when the carriage occupies the second position.
7. The trolley of claim 6, wherein the force urges the carriage
toward the first position.
8. The system of claim 7, wherein the second position is a default
position.
9. The trolley of claim 1, wherein the force urges the carriage
substantially exclusively toward the brake pad.
10. The trolley of claim 1, wherein the continuous range of motion
includes a default position.
11. The trolley of claim 10, wherein the braking force is at a
maximum when the carriage occupies the default position.
12. A system comprising: a cable held in suspension; a trolley
comprising a frame, a brake pad connected to the frame and
positioned to contact the cable, a sheave connected to the frame
and positioned to roll along the cable; the trolley having the
frame, sheave, and brake pad positioned to provide a frictional
force between the brake pad and the cable in response to a moment
of force applied to the frame; the trolley further comprising a
carriage providing a user mount and selectively traveling along the
frame through a continuous range of motion to control the moment of
force; and the trolley further comprising a carriage control
connected to the carriage and positioned to convert a tensile load
applied thereto into a force urging travel of the carriage in a
direction corresponding to a reduction in the moment of force.
13. The system of claim 12, wherein the continuous range of motion
provides a continuum of magnitudes for the moment of force.
14. The system of claim 13, wherein the continuous range of motion
is bounded at one end by a first position corresponding to a
minimum magnitude for the moment of force and at the other end by a
second position corresponding to a maximum magnitude for the moment
of force.
15. The system of claim 14, wherein the frame comprises a first
end, a second end, and a rail positioned between the first and
second ends.
16. The system of claim 15, wherein the brake pad connects to the
frame proximate the first end.
17. The system of claim 16, wherein trolley further comprises a
sheave mount connecting the sheave to the frame, the sheave mount
connecting to the frame at location between the rail and the brake
pad.
18. The system of claim 17, wherein the carriage travels along the
rail and the length of the rail defines the length of the
continuous range of motion.
19. A method comprising: selecting a trolley supported
substantially exclusively by a cable held in suspension, the
trolley having a frame and carriage; suspending a user from the
carriage; employing the trolley to move the user along the cable;
and controlling the speed of the trolley along the cable by
translating, while moving along the cable, the carriage with
respect to the frame.
20. The method of claim 19, wherein translating the carriage with
respect to the frame adjusts the moment of force applied by the
carriage to the frame.
Description
RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is a continuation of co-pending U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 11/605,853, filed Nov. 28, 2006.
BACKGROUND
[0002] 1. The Field of the Invention
[0003] This invention relates to suspended cable systems and, more
particularly, to novel systems and methods for braking and
retrieving trolleys traveling on suspended cable systems.
[0004] 2. The Background Art
[0005] Weather conditions such as temperature and wetness affect
the performance of typical trolleys configured to slide or roll
along suspended cables. For example, rain on a cable may
significantly change the coefficient of fiction between a trolley
brake and the cable. Accordingly, a trolley brake that is
acceptable for dry conditions, may be unacceptable for wet
conditions. Thus, operators must closely monitor weather conditions
when using current trolleys. What is needed is a trolley brake
providing acceptable performance across a greater range of weather
conditions.
[0006] Many trolley systems, sometimes called Ziplines, provide no
braking. They simply use a cable declining at a shallow angle in
which a rise at the lower end slows a user. Others may have a brake
set at a fixed parameter. Also, current trolleys do not provide a
user control "on-the-fly" over the magnitude of a braking force or
friction force generated by the trolley as it travels along a
cable. That is, to one degree or another, a user or knowledgeable
operator must preselect the braking force or the range of braking
force to be provided by the trolley. Once selected, the arrangement
is not easily or safely changed without stopping the trolley and
relieving the trolley of the user's weight. In certain embodiments,
legal liability and user inexperience may favor such inflexibility.
However, in other embodiments, greater user control may be
desirable. Accordingly, what is needed is a trolley providing safe,
"on-the-fly" adjustment between minimum braking and maximum
braking.
[0007] Furthermore, when using a trolley as the basis for an
amusement ride, revenue may largely depend on the number operators
employed to operate the ride and throughputs the number of users
served within a given period of time. Currently, to a large degree,
safety concerns dictate the numbers for both. For example, one of
the potential hazards of an amusement ride employing a trolley is
the possibility of collision. A first rider may ride a first
trolley to some location along a cable. Assuming that the first
rider has reached the bottom and exited the ride, a second rider
may ride a second trolley down the same cable. Accordingly, if the
first rider did not actually reach the lower end due to
over-braking, serious injury may occur when the second rider
collides with the first rider. What is needed is a trolley
retrieval system configured to maximize user throughput, minimize
operator interaction, and reduce or eliminate the risk of
collision.
BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0008] In view of the foregoing, in accordance with the invention
as embodied and broadly described herein, a method and apparatus
are disclosed in one embodiment of the present invention as
including a trolley comprising a frame, a brake assembly, and a
sheave mount. In selected embodiments, a brake assembly in
accordance with the present invention may provide significant
adjustability. For example, a brake assembly may include a brake
pad that may be removed and replaced, should wear so dictate.
Additionally, a brake pad may itself be readily adjustable to
provide a desired or customized braking effect to suit
conditions.
[0009] Various material properties and characteristics may be
considered when selecting a material for a brake pad in accordance
with the present invention. Often a material that has certain
advantageous characteristics may have others that are
disadvantageous. For example, one material may have excellent wear
resistance, but its coefficient of friction against a cable may
vary greatly depending on whether the cable is dry. Accordingly,
the material may be suitable for dry conditions, yet be hazardous
for wet conditions.
[0010] In certain embodiments, it may be advantageous to provide a
brake pad having repeatable and consistent performance with respect
to wear, coefficient of friction, or the like regardless of
temperature, wetness, etc. To provide the advantages of a brake pad
in accordance with the present invention, a brake pad may be formed
of various segments, typically positioned in series. So positioned,
the width of each segment may control the contact area between each
segment and the cable. The contact area may vary between segments.
For example, in certain embodiments, one segment may have a width
greater than the width of another segment. Accordingly, the former
segment may provide a greater contribution to the overall
performance of the brake pad than the latter segment.
[0011] By controlling the composition of the segments, the contact
area of the segments, and the gaps between the segments, the
performance of a brake pad may be optimized to a given trolley
application. For example, in selected embodiments, it may be
desirable for a brake pad in accordance with the present invention
to slide along a cable. That is, the brake pad may reduce the speed
of the trolley along the cable 12, but not overly slow or stop
it.
[0012] Accordingly, in one embodiment, certain segments may be
formed of a first, substantially inelastic material (e.g., high
density polyethylene (HDPE), ultra high molecular weight (UHMW)
polyethylene, or the like). The rest of the segments may be formed
a second, elastic material (e.g., multi-rubber or elastomeric
materials such as are used for the caliper brake pads of a
bicycle). Elastomers may strip water from a surface, but typically
do not wear as well as other polymers. Accordingly, overall, the
brake pad may have both acceptable wear and frictional engagement
even when applied to a wet cable. By adjusting the number of
segments corresponding to the first and second materials and the
contact areas associated with those segments, a proper balance of
characteristics may be achieved.
[0013] In selected embodiments, a trolley in accordance with the
present invention may provide a user (e.g. operator, or rider in
some circumstances) "on-the-fly" control over the magnitude of a
braking force generated by the trolley as it travels along a cable.
For example, by adjusting the moment arm (e.g. leverage) at which
the weight of a user is applied to the frame of a trolley, the
magnitude of the resulting moment may be controlled. The magnitude
of the moment may then dictate the magnitude of the normal force
against the cable generating the frictional braking force.
Accordingly, by adjusting the moment arm at which the weight of a
user is applied to the frame of a trolley, a user may control,
within a particular range, the speed of the trolley for a
particular catenary, or naturally hanging cable.
[0014] In selected embodiments, a trolley may include a carriage
configured to secure to, operate with, and be adjusted with respect
to a frame or portion of a frame throughout a range of motion
bounded by a first position of the carriage and a second position
of the carriage with respect to the frame. A carriage may move
along the frame through the range of motion without compromising
the connection between a user and the cable. Accordingly,
adjustment of the position of the carriage with respect to the
frame, and the resulting adjustment to the braking force, may
safely be accomplished in any suitable manner while the trolley
including the carriage and frame is in motion along the cable.
[0015] In certain embodiments, absent contrary inputs or forces, a
carriage may, under the impetus of gravitational acceleration, move
toward the second position. At the second position, the braking
force may be at a maximum. Accordingly, a trolley in accordance
with the present invention may have a default configuration
corresponding to maximum braking, which, given typical cable
declination, is sufficient to bring the trolley to a halt, such as
in the event of any failure of the trolley.
[0016] Trolleys in accordance with the present invention may be
used as the basis for an amusement ride. For such rides, revenue
may largely depend on the number of operators employed to operate
the ride and the number of users served within a given period of
time. Accordingly, a trolley retrieval system in accordance with
the present invention may be configured to maximize user
throughput, minimize operator interaction, and increase safety.
[0017] In selected embodiments, a trolley retrieval system may
include multiple cables held in suspension between first and second
supports. A retrieval line may be suspended in an open line or in a
closed loop extending from proximate a start area to proximate a
finish area. A closed loop is more readily controllable and less
likely to tangle or fail to deploy properly. A motivator (e.g.
motor) may selectively circulate the retrieval line back and forth
or around the loop. A controller may control operation of the
motivator.
[0018] In certain embodiments, a controller may include a processor
and one or more sensors. The sensors may be operably connected to
the processor to pass thereto a stop signal informing the processor
that one or more of trolleys is sufficiently near the start area.
The processor may be programmed to issue, in response to the stop
signal, a stop command causing the motivator to cease circulation
or other operation of the retrieval line. The processor may be
further programmed to issue, in further response to the stop
signal, a reverse command causing the motivator to reel in or
circulate the retrieval line in an opposite direction when it
resumes circulation of the retrieval line. For example, a motive
source may comprise an electric motor. In such an embodiment, the
controller of such a motivator may include a polarity switch
switching, in response to the reverse command, the polarity of the
current supplied to the electric motor. A controller may further
include a retrieval switch operably connected to cause, when
activated, the motivator to resume circulation of the retrieval
line.
[0019] In operation, an amusement ride in accordance with the
present invention may begin with selection of a system comprising
one or more cables held in suspension between first and second
supports and a trolley positioned to travel along each cable. A
user may then be connected to the trolley. Following securement of
a user into a harness or possibly of a harness or seat of a user
thereto, the trolley may be released to travel along the cable from
proximate the start area to proximate the finish area. At the
finish area, the user may be disconnected from the trolley. The
trolley may then be connected to a retrieval line. Safety will
usually favor fastening a user into a harness already connected to
the main support cable rather than connecting and disconnecting
harnesses and trolleys from a main support cable.
[0020] Once a trolley is connected to a retrieval line, the
motivator may be activated to draw the trolley along the cable from
proximate the finish area to proximate the start area. When one or
more of the trolleys connected to a retrieval line activates a
sensor, the motivator may stop the retrieval line. The trolley or
trolleys may then be disconnected from the retrieval line and
secured for future use.
[0021] As stated hereinabove, in selected embodiments, a processor
may be programmed to issue, in response to a stop signal, a reverse
command causing the motivator to circulate the retrieval line in an
opposite direction when it resumes circulation of the retrieval
line. So configured, the engagement locations between a retrieval
line and a trolley may travel in a cycle from the starting (e.g.
loading, launching) area to the finishing (e.g. end, unloading)
area and back. Moreover, while one engagement location is stopped
at the starting area, another may be stopped at the finish
area.
[0022] Accordingly, while one or more trolleys are being loaded
with users, other trolleys may be connected to a retrieval line.
Also, while one or more trolleys are towed or pulled back up from
the finish area to the start area, other engagement locations on
the retrieval line may be returning to the finish to continue the
cyclical pattern. So configured, a trolley retrieval system in
accordance with the present invention may provide a substantially
continuous throughput, minimize operator interaction, and increase
safety.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0023] The foregoing features of the present invention will become
more fully apparent from the following description and appended
claims, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.
Understanding that these drawings depict only typical embodiments
of the invention and are, therefore, not to be considered limiting
of its scope, the invention will be described with additional
specificity and detail through use of the accompanying drawings in
which:
[0024] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of one embodiment of a trolley
and cable in accordance with the present invention;
[0025] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of one embodiment of a sheave
mount from a trolley in accordance with the present invention;
[0026] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of one embodiment of a frame
from a trolley in accordance with the present invention;
[0027] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a brake assembly from a
trolley in accordance with the present invention;
[0028] FIG. 5 is an exploded view of the brake assembly of FIG.
4;
[0029] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of the trolley of FIG. 1,
omitting a cheek plate and brake shoe of the brake assembly;
[0030] FIG. 7 is a top, plan, cross-sectional view of one
embodiment of a brake pad and brake shoes in accordance with the
present invention;
[0031] FIG. 8 is a top, plan, cross-sectional view of an
alternative embodiment of a brake pad and brake shoes in accordance
with the present invention;
[0032] FIG. 9 is a top, plan, cross-sectional view of another
alternative embodiment of a brake pad and brake shoes in accordance
with the present invention;
[0033] FIG. 10 is a top, plan, cross-sectional view of another
alternative embodiment of a brake pad and brake shoes in accordance
with the present invention;
[0034] FIG. 11 is a side, elevation view of an alternative
embodiment of a trolley applying to a cable minimum braking in
accordance with the present invention;
[0035] FIG. 12 is a side, elevation view of the trolley of FIG. 11
applying to a cable maximum braking in accordance with the present
invention;
[0036] FIG. 13 is a perspective view of the trolley of FIG. 11;
[0037] FIG. 14 is another perspective view of the trolley of FIG.
11;
[0038] FIG. 15 is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment
of a capture in accordance with the present invention;
[0039] FIG. 16 is a partial, top, plan view of a trolley retrieval
system in accordance with the present invention;
[0040] FIG. 17 is a partial, perspective view of a line engagement
system from a trolley retrieval system in accordance with the
present invention;
[0041] FIG. 18 is a schematic block diagram of a method for
operating a trolley retrieval system in accordance with the present
invention;
[0042] FIG. 19 is a partial, top, plan view of an alternative
embodiment of a trolley retrieval system in accordance with the
present invention;
[0043] FIG. 20 is a side, elevation view of a cable support in
accordance with the present invention;
[0044] FIG. 21 is a perspective view of a cable anchoring assembly
in a slack-take-up mode in accordance with the present invention;
and
[0045] FIG. 22 is a perspective view of a cable anchoring assembly
in a tied-off configuration in accordance with the present
invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0046] It will be readily understood that the components of the
present invention, as generally described and illustrated in the
drawings herein, could be arranged and designed in a wide variety
of different configurations. Thus, the following more detailed
description of the embodiments of the system and method of the
present invention, as represented in the drawings, is not intended
to limit the scope of the invention, as claimed, but is merely
representative of various embodiments of the invention. The
illustrated embodiments of the invention will be best understood by
reference to the drawings, wherein like parts are designated by
like numerals throughout.
[0047] Referring to FIG. 1, in discussing a trolley 10 in
accordance with the present invention, it may be advantageous to
establish a coordinate system 11. Accordingly, a trolley 10 may be
defined in terms of a longitudinal direction 11a, a lateral
direction 11b, and a transverse direction 11c, substantially
orthogonal to one another.
[0048] A trolley 10 in accordance with the present invention may be
configured for travel along a cable 12 in the longitudinal
direction 11a. In general, a trolley 10 of the present invention
may be applied to a cable 12 held in suspension by two or more
supports. For example, as disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 6,622,634
issued Sep. 23, 2003 and entitled AMUSEMENT RIDE EMPLOYING A
SUSPENDED TENSIONED STATIC CABLE, which is incorporated herein by
reference, a cable 12 may be supported between two supports (e.g.,
towers, platforms). A first support may hold one end of the cable
12 at a higher elevation than a second support holds the other end
of the cable 12. Accordingly, a trolley 10 secured to roll along
the cable 12 may tend to travel from the first, upper support
toward the second, lower support.
[0049] While a suspended cable 12 may provide the basis for an
amusement ride, other uses are also contemplated. For example, a
suspended cable 12 may be used as part of a lift system
transporting persons or goods over or up certain geologic
obstacles. Suspended cables 12 are commonly used on ski lifts,
gondolas, aerial trams, and the like. Similarly, suspended cables
12 have been incorporated into evacuation systems (e.g., oil
derrick evacuation systems). Whether for repair, evacuation, or as
part of the system itself, such suspended cable 12 systems often
require a trolley 10 in accordance with the present invention.
[0050] In selected embodiments, a frame 14 may provide the main
structure of the trolley 10 or a base to which other components may
secure. A frame 14 may be formed of any suitable material or
combination of materials. Characteristics that may be considered
when selecting the material for the frame 14 may include cost,
formability, machineability, strength, rigidity, durability,
corrosion resistance, density, etc. In certain embodiments,
aluminum has been found to be a suitable material for a frame
14.
[0051] A frame 14 may extend from a first end 16 to a second end
18. In certain embodiments, a brake assembly 20 may connect to the
frame 14 proximate the first end 16 thereof. Proximate the second
end 18, a bumper assembly 22 may connect to the frame 14. In one
embodiment, a bumper assembly 22 may include a bumper 24 held
between two cheek plates 26. In selected embodiments, a bumper 24
may be formed of a friction-reducing polymeric material (e.g.,
HDPE, UHMWPE, PTFE). In other embodiments, a bumper 24 may be
formed of an elastomeric (e.g. rubber compound) material.
[0052] A sheave mount 28 may connect to the frame 14 at a location
between the brake assembly 20 and the second end 18. A sheave mount
28 may support one or more sheaves 30 positioned to roll along the
cable 12. In selected embodiments, the portion 32 of the frame 14
between the sheave mount 28 and the second end 18 may be
characterized as the user-suspension-portion 32. That is, the
weight of a user may be directed to, and supported by, this portion
32 of the frame 14.
[0053] In certain embodiments, the frame 14 of a trolley 10 in
accordance with the present invention may be suspended below a
cable 12 in the transverse direction 11c. A sheave mount 28 may
extend upwardly from the frame 14, positioning a sheave 30 to roll
on an upper surface of the cable 12. A brake assembly 20 may extend
upwardly from the frame 12 to contact a lower surface of the cable
12. With the brake assembly 20 and user-suspension portion 32 on
opposite sides of the sheave mount 28, the weight 34 of a user
applied to the user-suspension portion 32 may generate a torque 36
or moment 36 urging the brake assembly 20 to "pitch" against the
underside of the cable 12 (i.e., generate or urge rotation about an
axis extending in the lateral direction 11b). The greater the
moment 36 generated, the greater the braking force or friction
force produced by the brake assembly 20.
[0054] A carriage 38 may provide the primary interface between a
user and a trolley 10 in accordance with the present invention.
That is, while other locations, apertures, connection, structures,
and the like may be used for redundant, fail-safe systems, in
normal use, the majority of user weight 34 may be applied to the
carriage 38. The carriage 38, in turn, may communicate that load to
the frame 14.
[0055] The position of the carriage 38 with respect to the frame 14
may be adjusted to provided a desired braking force. For example,
the greater the distance 40 between the sheave mount 28 and the
carriage 38, the greater the moment 36 and resulting braking force.
The opposite may also be true. That is, the braking force may be
minimized by minimizing the moment arm 40 over which the weight 34
of a user may act.
[0056] Adjustability and securement between a carriage 38 and a
frame 14 may be provided by any suitable structures. In selected
embodiments, an array of apertures 42 may provide an array of
positions at which a carriage 38 may be secured to a frame 14. A
pin 44 or bolt 44 may pass through a carriage 38 and a selected
aperture of the array 42 to lock the carriage 38 at a desired
moment arm 40. Accordingly, a trolley 10 in accordance with the
present invention may be tuned to a particular cable 12
arrangement. That is, a trolley 10 may be formed according to a
single design, yet be flexible within that design to provide
braking appropriate for a wide range of cable 12 arrangements.
[0057] For example, given a first cable 12 arrangement involving a
comparatively larger change in elevation, a trolley 10 traveling on
such a cable 12 may tend to reach excessive speeds. Thus, the
carriage 38 may be secured to the frame 14 at an aperture 46 in the
array of apertures 40 providing a corresponding, comparatively
larger moment arm 40. This greater moment arm 40 may increase the
braking force and keep the trolley 10 within acceptable speed
ranges.
[0058] Conversely, consider a second cable 12 arrangement involving
a minimal change in elevation. For such an arrangement, a carriage
38 secured at certain apertures (e.g., aperture 46) may provided
excessive braking. For example, the resultant braking may cause the
trolley 10 to stop without reaching the unloading area at the
bottom of the cable 12. According, for such arrangements, a
carriage 38 may be secured to the frame 14 at an aperture 48 in the
array of apertures 40 providing a minimal moment arm 40. By so
positioning the carriage 38, the trolley 38 may provide greater
speed along the cable 12.
[0059] While the weights of different users may vary, a trolley 10
in accordance with the present invention may automatically
compensate for such variations. For example, the braking force
required to regulate the speed of a trolley 10 carrying a user
weighing 200 lbs. may be significantly greater than the braking
force required to regulate the speed of a trolley 10 carrying a
user weighing 100 lbs. However, with a single setting of the
carriage 38 (i.e., a single moment arm 40), at trolley 10 may
appropriately regulate the speed of both users.
[0060] The braking force generated by a trolley 10 is equal to the
coefficient of friction between the brake assembly 20 and the cable
12 multiplied by the normal force urging the braking assembly 20
against the cable 12. For a single moment arm 40, the only variable
becomes the weight 34 of the user. Accordingly, the normal force
urging the braking assembly 20 against the cable 12, which is
result of the moment 36 applied by the weight 34 of a user to the
frame 14, controls the braking force. Thus, without adjusting the
position of the carriage 38, the braking force generated for a user
weighing 200 lbs. user will automatically be roughly twice that
generated for a user weighing 100 lbs. That is, a trolley 10 may be
tuned to a particular cable 12 arrangement, but need not be tuned
for each user.
[0061] A trolley 10 in accordance with the present invention may
include any desirable redundant or fail-safe systems. For example,
in selected embodiments, a frame 14 may include a slot 50 within or
along which the carriage 38 may travel. Accordingly, if the pin 44
holding the carriage 38 in a particular location were to fail, the
carriage 38 would not be free to separate from the frame 14.
Additionally, the orientation of the slot 50 with respect to the
weight 34 of a user may urge an unpinned carriage 38 toward the end
of the slot 50 corresponding to the second end 18 of the frame 14.
At such a location, the moment arm 40 and corresponding braking
force may be at a maximum. Accordingly, if a pin 44 were to fail,
the link between the user and the cable 12 would not be lost and
the trolley 10 would quickly be brought to a halt.
[0062] Referring to FIG. 2, in selected embodiments, a sheave mount
28 in accordance with the present invention may be pivotably
secured to a frame 14. For example, in certain embodiments, a bolt
52 may extend through the frame 14. If desired, a collar 54 may be
positioned over the bolt 52 to improve wear resistance, increase
the rigidity of the bolt 52, or the like.
[0063] In certain embodiments, to increase safety, a sheave mount
28 may provide an enclosure capturing a cable 12 therewithin. That
is, once the sheave mount 28 has received a cable 12 therewithin,
it may resist inadvertent removal of that cable 12. For example, in
one embodiment, a sheave mount 28 may include a first side 56
extending from the bolt 52 to an aperture 58 for supporting a
sheave 30. This first side 56 may include one or more ribs 60 to
increase the rigidity and strength thereof. A top 62 of the sheave
mount 28 may connect the first side 56 to a second side 64 of the
sheave mount 28. In selected embodiments, the second side 64 may
control admittance and release of a cable 12 from within the sheave
mount 28.
[0064] In selected embodiments, the second side 64 of a sheave
mount 28 may be separated into a hook portion 66 and a bail
assembly 68. In one embodiment, the hook portion 66 may be
connected to the top 62 and include an aperture 70 that, in
combination with another aperture 58, may pivotably connect a
sheave 30 to the sheave mount 28. A hook portion 66 may also
include a hook 72.
[0065] A bail assembly 68 may include a bail 74 and a bail mount
76. A bail mount 76 may connect to the bolt 52 or collar 54
extending through the frame 14 from the first side 56 of the sheave
mount 28. A bail 74 may, in turn, extend from the bail mount 76 to
engage the hook 72 of the hook portion 66. In selected embodiments,
a bail 74 may be biased toward a closed position with respect to
the hook 72. Accordingly, in certain embodiments, a bail 74 may be
moved (e.g., pivoted) to permit entry of a cable 12 into the sheave
mount 28. Once the cable 12 is captured with the sheave mount 28,
the bail 74 may be released to return automatically to its
preferred (biased), closed position.
[0066] In selected embodiments, the interface between a bail 74 and
a hook 72 may be such that the bail 74 is configured to open only
toward the interior of the sheave mount 28. Thus, the bail 74 may
be biased to permit entry of a cable 12 into the sheave mount 28
but resist inadvertent removal of that cable 12. As an additional
safety feature, in certain embodiments, a bail mount 76 may include
a slotted aperture 78 extending therethrough to receive the bolt
52, collar 54, or some combination thereof. A tensioner 80 may
control the position of the bolt 52, collar 54, etc. within the
slotted aperture 78.
[0067] Accordingly, once a cable 12 has been received within a
sheave mount 28 and the bail 74 has returned to a closed position,
the tensioner 80 may be adjusted to move the bail assembly 68 with
respect to the bolt 52, collar 54, etc. Thus, the bail 74 may be
pulled 82 firmly into engagement with the hook 72. In such an
arrangement, the hook 72 may resist opening of the bail 74.
Additionally, the bail assembly 68 may assist in transferring loads
from a sheave 30 to the frame 14 of the trolley 10. That is, the
first side 56 of the sheave mount 28 need not act alone, thereby
increasing the load-bearing capacity, and corresponding safety
factor, associated with the sheave mount 28.
[0068] Referring to FIG. 3, in selected embodiments, a trolley 10
in accordance with the present invention may include a brake
assembly 20 that is pivotably secured to the frame 14. A pivotable
connection between a brake assembly 20 and a frame 14 may support a
more controlled and even wear on the break assembly 20.
[0069] In certain embodiments, to provide a pivoting securement
between a brake assembly 20 and a frame 14, the frame 14 may
include various apertures 84, 86. A pivot aperture 84 may be sized
and shaped to receive a pivot bolt (i.e., a bolt about which the
brake assembly 20 may pivot). A limiting aperture 86 may be sized
and shaped to receive a limiting bolt (i.e., a bolt moving with the
brake assembly 20 and abutting the extremes of the limiting
aperture 86 when the brake assembly 20 reaches a desired limit to
its pivoting).
[0070] In selected embodiments, a frame 14 may include multiple
pivoting apertures 84a, 84b, 84c. For example, a first pivoting
aperture 84a may provide a pivot point (e.g., central pivot point)
for a brake assembly 20 of a first size. A second pivoting aperture
84b may provide a pivot point for a brake assembly 20 of a second,
smaller size. A third pivoting aperture 84c may provide a pivot
point for a brake assembly 20 of a third, even smaller size. If
desired, multiple limiting apertures 86 may be provided. In one
embodiment, however, a single limiting aperture 86 may be sized and
shaped to providing a limiting effect to brake assemblies 20
pivoting in any of the various pivoting apertures 84.
[0071] Referring to FIGS. 4 and 5, a brake assembly 20 in
accordance with the present invention may provide significant
adjustability. For example, a brake assembly 20 may include a brake
pad 88 that may be removed and replaced, as wear so dictates.
Additionally, a brake pad 88 may itself be adjustable to provide a
desired or customized braking effect. In selected embodiments, a
brake pad 88 may comprise a plurality of interchangeable brake pad
segments 89. Thus, the sequence, composition, gaps, and the like of
the various segments 89 may be selected to provide a desired
resistance to wear, frictional coefficient, all-weather braking,
and the like.
[0072] In certain embodiments, the various segments 89 of a brake
pad 88 may be held in place by one or more brake shoes 90. For
example, in one embodiment, a first brake shoe 90a may engage one
side of the brake pad 88, while a second brake shoe 90b may engage
the other side of the brake pad 88. Accordingly, in such an
embodiment, the brake shoes 90 may securely hold the brake pad 88
therebetween.
[0073] In selected embodiments, the brake pad 88 and one or more
brake shoes 90 may be configured to facilitate mutual engagement.
For example, in one embodiment, the various segments 89 of a brake
pad 88 may include one or more extensions 92. The brake shoes 90
may include one or more recesses 94 shaped and sized to receive the
extensions 92. Accordingly, when assembled, the brake shoes 90 may
secure the brake pad 88 in all three dimensions 11a, 11b, 11c.
[0074] If desired or necessary, a brake assembly 20 may include
various structural members providing additional strength, rigidity,
safety, or the like. For example, in selected embodiments, a brake
assembly 20 may include one or more cheek plates 96. In one
embodiment, a brake assembly 20 may include a first cheek plate 96a
positioned to reinforce a first brake shoe 90a and a second cheek
plate 96b positioned to reinforce a second brake shoe 90b.
[0075] In certain embodiments, a cheek plate 96 may include various
apertures to support desired functionality. For example, a cheek
plate 96a may include an aperture 98 sized and positioned to
receive a limiting bolt, one or more apertures 100 sized and
positioned to receive a pivot bolt, and one or more apertures 102
sized and positioned to receive assembly bolts or bolts securing
the brake assembly 20 together. In selected embodiments,
corresponding apertures 98, 100, 102 may be formed in other cheek
plates 96b, as well as the various brake shoes 90.
[0076] In selected embodiments, a brake assembly 20 may include a
groove 104 or slot 104 sized and positioned to accommodate a
portion of the frame 14 therewithin. Accordingly, in such
embodiments, a brake assembly 20 may effectively straddle the frame
14, permitting various fasteners (e.g., pivot bolts, limiting
bolts, etc.) to pass through both the brake assembly 20 and the
frame 14. If desired or necessary, a slot 104 may extend some
distance less than the entire length of the brake assembly 20. For
example, in one embodiment, opposing brake shoes 90a, 90b may each
include a shoulder 106 extending to meet the other. The shoulders
106 may effectively close the slot 104. Accordingly, any fastener
(e.g., assembly bolt) passing through the area of the shoulder 106
may be tightened without clamping the frame 14 and reducing the
ability of the brake assembly 20 to pivot with respect to the frame
14.
[0077] A brake assembly 20 in accordance with the present invention
may include a capture 108. A capture 108 may secure a cable 12
therewithin. That is, once a trolley 10 is applied to a cable 12,
the capture 108 may secure the brake assembly 20 to the cable 12.
Accordingly, the capture 108 may provide a redundant safety
mechanism and, should there be a catastrophic failure of the sheave
mount 28, the trolley 10 may be secured to the cable 12 via the
brake assembly 20 and capture 108.
[0078] If desired, a capture 108 may include a slide 110. In
certain embodiments, a slide 110 may provide an interface between a
capture 108 and a cable 12. For example, a capture 108 may in
certain situations slide along a cable 12. In such situations, a
slide 110 may prevent abrasion or grinding that may reduce the
structural integrity of the capture 108. In one embodiment, a slide
110 may include a groove 112 or slot 112 providing a preferred or
default location of engagement between a slide 110 and a cable 12,
should contact occur therebetween.
[0079] Referring to FIG. 6, a capture 108 in accordance with the
present invention may have any suitable shape or configuration.
Additionally, a capture 108 may secure to the rest of the brake
assembly 20 in any suitable manner. For example, in one embodiment,
a capture 108 may be positioned and secured to bracket the rest of
the brake assembly 20. Such bracketing may improve the structural
integrity of the brake assembly 20 without requiring additional
fasteners (e.g., bolts), which may interfere with the adjustability
or functionality of the brake assembly 20. Portions of the capture
108 may be held in place by one or more bolts extending in the
lateral direction 11b through the brake assembly 20. For example,
in one embodiment, a capture 108 may be held in place by a limiting
bolt 114 and an assembly bolt 116.
[0080] Referring to FIG. 7, various material properties and
characteristics may be considered when selecting a material for a
brake pad 88 in accordance with the present invention. Properties
and characteristics that may be considered include cost,
availability, machineability, wear resistance, toughness, all
weather performance (e.g., characteristics at various conditions of
humidity, moisture, corrosion, temperature, and the like),
coefficient of friction against a cable 12 in various weather
conditions (e.g., temperature and wetness levels), and the like.
Often a material that has certain advantageous characteristics may
have others that are disadvantageous. For example, one material may
have excellent wear resistance, but its coefficient of friction
against a cable 12 may vary greatly depending on whether the cable
is dry. Accordingly, the material may be suitable for dry
conditions, yet be hazardous for wet conditions.
[0081] In certain embodiments of a trolley 10 in accordance with
the present invention, it may be advantageous to provide a brake
pad 88 having repeatable and consistent performance with respect to
wear, coefficient of friction, or the like regardless of
temperature, wetness, etc. For example, by providing a brake pad 88
with consistent wear, fixed maintenance schedules may be determined
and executed. The resulting decrease in subjectivity may be
accompanied by an increase in consistency and safety. Similarly, by
providing a brake pad 88 with a consistent coefficient of friction
regardless of the wetness of the cable 12, rain need not concern an
operator of a trolley 10 in accordance with the present invention.
Again, the resulting decrease in subjectivity and weather
dependence may be accompanied by an increase in consistency and
safety.
[0082] In selected embodiments, a brake pad 88 may be configured to
operate within a specific range. For example, a brake pad 88 may
perform within a range, regardless of environmental temperature and
the wetness or dryness of a cable 12. A brake pad 88 may deliver a
rider to the bottom end of a cable 12 at a first speed in a dry
environment at 90 degrees Fahrenheit. That same brake pad 88 may
deliver a rider to the bottom end of a cable 12 at a second speed,
different from the first speed, in a wet (e.g., saturated cable 12)
environment at 65 degrees Fahrenheit. However, the difference
between the first and second speeds may be such that both are
within an acceptable range. For example, while the first may be 20
miles per hour and the second may be 27 miles per hour, both speeds
may be below a hypothetical safety cutoff of 35 miles per hour.
[0083] To provide the advantages of a brake pad 88 in accordance
with the present invention, a brake pad 88 may be formed of various
segments 89 The various segments 89 may be formed in various shapes
and of various materials. As stated hereinabove, the shape of the
various segments 89 may support engagement with the rest of the
brake assembly 20 (e.g., the brake shoes 90). The shape of the
various segments 89 may also control the contact area between a
segment 89 and a cable 12.
[0084] In selected embodiments, a brake pad 88 may include a
plurality of segments 89 positioned in series. So positioned, the
width of each segment 89 in the longitudinal direction 11a may
control the contact area between each segment 89 and the cable 12.
The contact area may vary between segments 89. For example, in
certain embodiments, one segment 89a may have a width 118 greater
than the width 120 of another segment 89b. Accordingly, the former
segment 89a may provide a greater contribution to the overall
performance of the brake pad 88 than the latter segment 89b.
Although friction forces are independent from the area engaged,
wear is not.
[0085] If desired, gaps 122 may be included between various
segments 89 of a brake pad 88. In certain embodiments, gaps 122 may
improve the all weather performance of a brake pad 88. For example,
when a cable 12 is saturated with water, the gaps 122 may provide
locations for the water to escape from between the cable 12 and a
segment 89 being pressed thereagainst. The size 124 or width 124 of
the gaps 122 in a brake pad 88 may vary from a minimum of direct
abutment between adjacent segments (e.g., segment 89a and segment
89b) to some maximum.
[0086] By controlling the composition of the segments 89, the
contact area of the segments 89, and the gaps 122 between the
segments 89, the performance of a brake pad 88 may be optimized to
a given trolley 10 application. For example, in selected
embodiments, it may be desirable for a brake pad 88 in accordance
with the present invention to slide along a cable 12. That is, the
brake pad 88 may lower the speed of the trolley 10 along the cable
12, but not overly slow or stop it. Accordingly, in one embodiment,
certain segments 89a, 89c, 89e, 89g may be formed of a first,
substantially inelastic material (e.g., high density polyethylene
(HDPE) or ultra high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE)). The
rest of the segments 89b, 89d, 89f, 89h may be formed a second,
elastic material (e.g., multi-rubber or other natural or synthetic
elastomeric materials such as those used for the caliper brake pads
of a bicycle).
[0087] So arranged, the first material may provide the desired wear
resistance and a suitable (e.g., limited) frictional engagement
with a dry cable 12. The second material may not wear as well as
the first material, yet provide a suitable water stripping or
frictional engagement with a wet cable 12. Accordingly, overall,
the brake pad 88 may have both acceptable wear and frictional
engagement even when applied to a wet cable 12. By adjusting the
number of segments 89 corresponding to the first and second
materials and the contact areas associated with those segments 89,
a proper balance of characteristics may be achieved.
[0088] Referring to FIG. 8, in selected embodiments, two materials
and two larger gaps 122 may be all that is required to provide a
satisfactory brake pad 88. Additionally, for optimum performance,
the contact area between the two materials may only slightly favor
one material over the other. In such an embodiment, a first
plurality of segments 89a, 89c, 89e, 89g, 89i may be formed of a
first material. A second plurality of segments 89b, 89d, 89f, 89h
may be formed of a second material. If desired, the segments 89 may
be positioned in an alternating pattern. Accordingly, each segment
89 of the second material may be positioned between segments 89
corresponding to the first material.
[0089] Alternatively, the segments 89a, 89c, 89e, 89g, 89i
comprising the first material may be positioned adjacent one
another, and the segments 89b, 89d, 89f, 89h comprising the second
material may be positioned adjacent one another. In such an
embodiment, the segment 89a, 89c, 89e, 89g, 89i comprising the
first material may be consolidated into a single monolithic (i.e.,
seamless) unit. Similarly, the segments 89b, 89d, 89f, 89h
comprising the second material may be consolidated into a single
monolithic unit.
[0090] Referring to FIG. 9, in selected embodiments, two materials
and minimal gaps 122 may be all that is required to provide a
satisfactory brake pad 88. Additionally, for optimum performance,
the contact area between the two materials may favor one material
over the other (e.g., 75 percent one material, 25 percent another).
In such an embodiment, a first plurality of segments 89a, 89c, 89e,
89g, 89i may comprise a first material. A second plurality of
segments 89b, 89d, 89f, 89h may comprise a second material. Again,
the segments 89 may be positioned in an alternating pattern.
Alternatively, the segments 89a, 89c, 89e, 89g, 89i comprising the
first material may be positioned adjacent one another and the
segments 89b, 89d, 89f, 89h comprising the second material may be
positioned adjacent one another. Adjacent segments 89 of common
material may be consolidated as desired.
[0091] Referring to FIG. 10, in selected embodiments, more than two
materials 122 may be required to provide an optimal brake pad 88.
For example, for optimum performance, three materials may be needed
in varying degrees (e.g., contact area comprising 45 percent of a
first material, 30 percent of a second material, and 25 percent of
the last material). In such an embodiment, a first plurality of
segments 89a, 89e, 89i may comprise a first material. A second
plurality of segments 89c, 89g may comprise a second material. A
third plurality of segments 89b, 89d, 89f, 89h may comprise a third
material. Again, the segments 89 may be positioned in an
alternating or distributed (e.g., balanced) pattern. Alternatively,
the segments 89 may be separated and arranged by material type,
and, if desired, consolidated into a minimum number of segments 89
(e.g., only one segment 89 for each type of material).
[0092] Referring to FIGS. 11 and 12, in selected embodiments, a
trolley 10 in accordance with the present invention may provide a
user readily adjustable, or even "on-the-fly," control over the
magnitude of a braking force 126 or friction force 126 generated by
the trolley 10 as it travels along a cable 12. The braking force
126 may be equal to the normal force 128 urging the brake assembly
20 against the cable 12 multiplied by the friction coefficient for
the brake pad 88 against the cable 12. With the friction
coefficient for the brake pad 88 against the cable 12 being
substantially constant, the braking force 126 may perhaps most
easily be manipulated by manipulations of the normal force 128.
[0093] For example, by adjusting the moment arm 40 at which the
weight 34 of a user is applied to the frame 14 of a trolley 10, the
magnitude of the resulting moment 36 may be controlled. The
magnitude of the moment 36 may then dictate the magnitude of the
normal force 128. Accordingly, by adjusting the moment arm 40 at
which the weight 34 of a user is applied to the frame 14 of a
trolley 10, a user may control, within a particular range, the
braking force 126 generated by the trolley 10.
[0094] In selected embodiments, a trolley 10 in accordance with the
present invention may include a carriage 38 configured to travel
along a frame 14 or portion of a frame 14 through a range (e.g.,
continuous range) of motion bounded by a first position of the
carriage 38 proximate the sheave mount 28 (e.g., the position of
the carriage 38 in FIG. 11) and a second position of the carriage
38 proximate a second end 18 of the frame 14 (e.g., the position of
the carriage 38 in FIG. 12).
[0095] In certain embodiments, a carriage 38 may travel along the
frame 14 through the range of motion bounded by the first and
second positions without compromising the connection between a user
and the cable 12. Accordingly, adjustment of the position of the
carriage 38, and the resulting adjustment to the braking force 126,
may safely be accomplished in any suitable manner while the trolley
10 is in motion along the cable 12. That is, in selected
embodiments, neither a stopped trolley 10 nor any change in the
connection between a user and a cable 12 may be necessary to
transition from minimum leverage and braking to maximum leverage
and braking.
[0096] In selected embodiments, the default position of a carriage
38 with respect to the frame 14 may be the second position (e.g.,
the position of the carriage 38 in FIG. 12). That is, absent
contrary inputs or forces, a carriage 38 may, under the impetus of
gravitational acceleration, move toward the second position. At the
second position, the braking force 126 may be at a maximum.
Accordingly, a trolley 10 in accordance with the present invention
may have a default configuration corresponding to maximum braking,
which, given typical cable 12 declination, is sufficient to bring
the trolley 10 to a halt.
[0097] Referring to FIGS. 13 and 14, in selected embodiments, a
trolley 10 in accordance with the present invention may be
configured to facilitate travel of the carriage 38 along the
user-suspension portion 32 of the frame 14. For example, in
selected embodiments, a frame 14 may include a rail 130 to provide
a suitable surface over which a carriage 38 may travel. In certain
embodiments, a rail 130 may provide a substantially planar surface.
If desired, a rail 130 may be formed of a material dissimilar from
the rest of the frame 14. For example, in embodiments where the
frame 14 may be formed of aluminum, a rail 130 formed of steel may
be connected to the frame 14 to provide a more durable surface over
which a carriage 38 may travel.
[0098] A trolley 10 may be configured to resist removal of a
carriage 38 from the frame 14. For example, in selected
embodiments, a sheave mount 28 may prevent a carriage 38 from
passing therebeyond (e.g., beyond the first position). Similarly,
the second end 18 of the frame 14 may be configured to prevent a
carriage 38 from passing therebeyond (e.g., beyond the second
position). For example, in certain embodiments, the second end 18
of the frame 14 may be shaped to include a rise 132 extending
transversely 11c from the frame to resist passage of the carriage
38 thereover. Also, in some embodiments, the second end 18 of a
frame 14 may include a stop 134 (e.g. bolt, pin, etc.) extending
laterally 11b from the frame to block passage of the carriage
38.
[0099] In certain embodiments, a carriage 38 may include two cheek
plates 136 bracketing the frame 14. Various fasteners 138, 140, and
142 may extend between the cheek plates 136 to connect the plates
136 together. Such fasteners 138, 140, 142 may also support various
functions of a carriage 38. For example, one fastener 138 may
provide a user mount 144 or a location 144 at which a user may
connect to or the into the carriage 38 and transfer his or her
weight 34 thereto. Another fastener 140 may support a roller 146,
bushing 146, or bearing 146 facilitating travel of the carriage 38
along the rail 130. Yet another fastener 142 may provide a
structure supporting manipulation of the carriage 38 along the rail
130.
[0100] For example, in selected embodiments, a fastener 142 may
provide a location for a tether 148 to engage the carriage 38. If
desired, a tether 148 may extend from the carriage 38, over the
pivot 52, bolt 52, or fastener securing the sheave mount 28, and
down toward a user. Thus, by pulling 150 down on the tether 148, a
user may pull 152 the carriage 38 toward the first position and the
minimum braking corresponding thereto. Conversely, by releasing the
tether 148 or sufficiently lowering the downward force 150 applied
to the tether 148, the carriage 38 may travel toward the second
position and the maximum braking corresponding thereto.
[0101] A user may engage or manipulate a tether 148 in any suitable
manner. For example, in one embodiment, a tether 148 may be
connected to a handle suspended at an appropriate height for the
user. Accordingly, the user may simply grab the handle and pull 150
down on the tether. Alternatively, a tether may extend to engage
the foot of a user. For example, a user may position a foot within
a loop connected to the tether 148. Thus, by weighting the foot
(e.g., shifting some of the weight 34 of the user from the carriage
to the tether 148), the tether 148 may be pulled 150 downward.
[0102] Accordingly, while a carriage 34 may be the primary
suspension point for the weight 34 of the user, portions of that
weight 34 may be diverted as necessary to adjust the position of
the carriage 38 or to otherwise increase the safety of a trolley
10. For example, in selected embodiments, various apertures 154 may
be provided in a frame 14. Such apertures 154 may support redundant
user support systems taking a portion of the weight 34 of a user in
normal use and a substantial portion of the weight 34 of a user in
compromised use. Additionally, such apertures 154 may provide
locations for supporting other loads or persons not directly
responsible for the operation of the trolley 10 (e.g., a rescue
being lowered from a stalled chair lift).
[0103] In selected embodiments, a trolley 10 in accordance with the
present invention may be configured for rapid engagement with and
disengagement from a cable 12. In such embodiments, a capture 108
may be omitted. Alternatively, a capture 108 providing rapid
release may be employed. For example, in one embodiment, a capture
108 may comprise a flexible cable. So configured, the capture 108
may extend from a first mount 156 positioned on one side of a brake
assembly 20 to a second mount 158 positioned on the other side of
the brake assembly 20. The engagement between the capture 108 and
one mount 156 may be substantially permanent, while a release
mechanism 160 (e.g., quick release hook, carabiner, or the like)
may provide selective engagement between the capture 108 and the
other mount 158.
[0104] In certain embodiments, a brake pad 88 may be formed as a
monolithic and homogeneous unit. For example, a brake pad 88 may be
formed as a single, seamless piece of a non-elastic material (e.g.,
UHMWPE). Alternatively, a brake pad 88 may include various other
segments 89 or inserts 89 selectively providing additional control
over braking characteristics. A pivot bolt 162 may pivotably secure
the brake pad 88 to the frame 14. If desired or necessary, a brake
assembly 20 in accordance with the present invention may include an
adjustable stop 164. In some embodiments, the adjustable stop 164
may provide a selectively adjustable limit on the pivoting of the
brake pad 88. In other embodiments, the adjustable stop 164 may
dictate the angle at which the brake pad 88 may contact a cable
12.
[0105] Referring to FIG. 15, in selected embodiments, one or more
captures 108 may be used to secure a brake assembly 20 to a cable
12. If desired, one or more captures 108 may be positioned to
maintain a brake assembly 20 in abutment with the cable 12. For
example, a capture 108 may be positioned such that the brake pad 88
and one or more slides 110 simultaneously contact a cable 12. The
various slides 110 may be formed of various materials (e.g.,
materials such as those used in a brake pad 88) to provide a
desired composite sliding or braking effect. Such an arrangement
may provide additional control over the motion of the trolley 10
with respect to the cable 12.
[0106] In certain embodiments, a capture 108 may be formed of an
elastic material to provide a degree of control over the normal
force 128 applied thereby. In one embodiment, a capture 1087 may be
formed of an elastic band material formed with various apertures
165. Mounts 158 may be configured as extensions or posts extending
(e.g., in a lateral direction 11b) from the cheek plates 96.
Accordingly, the apertures 165 in the capture 108 may be placed
over the mounts 158 to secure the capture 108 to the rest of the
brake assembly 20.
[0107] Additionally, by selecting which aperture 165 is applied to
which mount 158, a user may control the slack between the slides
110 and the cable or, alternatively, the tension in the capture 108
pulling the slides 110 into contact with the cable 12. The normal
force 128 may thus be increased sufficiently to hold the trolley 10
in place on the cable 12 both during application of the trolley 10
the cable 12 and securement of a user to the trolley 10. The effect
of the capture 108 may thus bias the cable 12 against the brake pad
88, hold the trolley 10 in place, provide additional braking effect
in operation, or some combination thereof. In practice, ten to
twenty pounds of braking force is readily achieved by manually
tensioning a pair of captures 108. On portions of a cable 12 having
little declination, the captures 108 may be loosened or released to
eliminate their braking effect.
[0108] Moreover, by tensioning the capture 108 sufficiently to
prevent motion of the trolley 10 along the cable 12, a user may not
have to contend with the trolley 10 sliding along the cable 12 as
the user is attempting to properly apply weight 34 to the frame 14.
This may provide more precise control of movement of the trolley 10
at all times, particularly on portions of the cable 12 at steep
angles (e.g., greater than 30 degrees) or in close quarters near
suspended chairs or gondolas being serviced.
[0109] Referring to FIG. 16, trolleys 10 in accordance with the
present invention may be used as the basis for an amusement or
thrill ride. One of the potential hazards of a ride employing
trolleys 10 in accordance with the present invention is the
possibility of collision. For example, a first rider may ride a
first trolley 10 to some location along a cable 12. Assuming that
the first rider has reached the bottom and exited the ride, a
second rider may ride a second trolley 10 down the same cable 12.
Accordingly, if the first rider did not actually reach the bottom,
serious injury may occur when the second rider collides with the
first rider. While communication between finish area operators, or
sensors thereat, and start area operators, or sensors thereat, may
reduce the risk of such collisions, the possibility of
miscommunication or malfunction permits some risk of collision to
remain.
[0110] Also, for amusement rides, revenue may largely depend on the
number operators employed to operate the ride and the number of
users served within a given period of time. Accordingly, revenue
may be increased in various ways. For example, a plurality of
cables 12 may be employed. Additionally, the rate at which each
cable is utilized may be increased. That is, the method for
circulating trolleys 10 (i.e., transporting trolleys 10 from the
finish area back to the start area) may be optimized. Also, the
number of operators may be minimized.
[0111] In view of the foregoing, a trolley retrieval system 166 in
accordance with the present invention may be configured to maximize
user throughput, minimize operator interaction, and eliminate the
risk of collision. In selected embodiments, a system 166 may
include multiple (e.g., four) cables 12 held in suspension between
first and second supports. A retrieval line 168 may be suspended in
a closed loop extending from proximate a start area 170 to
proximate a finish area 172. In general, the start area 170 may
correspond to the first or upper support, while the finish area 172
may correspond to the second or lower support. A motivator 174 may
selectively circulating the retrieval line 168 around the loop. A
controller 176 may control operation of the motivator 174.
[0112] In selected embodiments, a controller 176 may include a
processor 178 and one or more end-of-travel sensors 180 sensing
when a trolley 10 nears the start area 170. The sensors 180 may be
operably connected to the processor 176 to appropriately pass
thereto a stop signal informing the processor 176 that one or more
of trolleys 10 is sufficiently near the start area 170. The
processor 176 may be programmed to issue, in response to the stop
signal, a stop command causing the motivator 174 to cease
circulation of the retrieval line 168. The processor 176 may be
further programmed to issue, in further response to the stop
signal, a reverse command causing the motivator 176 to circulate
the retrieval line 168 in an opposite direction when it resumes
circulation the retrieval line 168. A controller 176 may further
include a retrieval switch 182 operably connected to cause, when
activated, the motivator 174 to resume circulation of the retrieval
line 168. The retrieval line 168 may travel down with a user or
simply disconnect to be reconnected only when retrieval is needed.
Thus, movement of the retrieval line 168 may be continuous in a
loop of a constant sense of direction.
[0113] At the finish area 172, each cable 12 may include arresting
equipment 184. Arresting equipment 167 may include whatever
structures are necessary to safety slow a trolley 10 and associated
user to a stop. In selected embodiments, the arresting equipment
184 may include terminal brake acceptors (e.g. receiver or
actuator), springs, and weights as disclosed in U.S. Pat. No.
6,622,634.
[0114] In certain embodiments, a retrieval system 166 may include a
plurality of sheaves 186 cooperating to hold the retrieval line 168
in suspension. If desired, each sheave 186a, 186b, 186c, and 186d
of the plurality of sheaves 186 may be connected to one of the
first and second supports. Accordingly, the retrieval line 168 may
be suspended in the same catenary form or angle as that of the
various cables 12. Also, the sheaves 186 may define the loop about
which the retrieval line 168 may circulate or travel. In selected
embodiments, different legs or portions 188 of the retrieval line
168 may serve different cables 12 during operation. For example, in
a four cable embodiment, a first leg 188a of a retrieval line 168
may be positioned to serve two cables 12a, 12b, while a second leg
188b of the retrieval line 168 may be positioned to serve the other
cables 12c, 12d.
[0115] In certain embodiments, a retrieval line 168 may be formed
of any suitable material. In one embodiment, a retrieval line 168
may be formed of a relatively lightweight, synthetic polymer rope.
If desired or necessary, a retrieval line 168 may include one or
more swivels 190 relieving twisting imposed thereon or generated
therein. Various interface mechanisms 192 (e.g., carabiners, loop
reinforcements, or the like) may provide the interface between the
line 168 and the swivels 190. In selected embodiments, the swivels
190 or interface mechanisms 192 may provide a location at which a
trolley 10 may connect to or engage the retrieval line 168.
Additionally, the swivels 190 and interface mechanisms 192 may
provide break points supporting replacement of certain portions of
the retrieval line 168 should wear so dictate.
[0116] In selected embodiments, a motivator 174 may include a
motive source 194 coupled to a line engagement system 196. In
certain embodiment, a motive source 194 may provide rotation to the
line engagement system 196, which, in turn, may induce movement
(e.g., circulation) of the retrieval line 168. In one embodiment, a
motive source 194 may comprise an electric motor. In such an
embodiment, the motivator 174 may further include a polarity switch
switching, in response to the reverse command, the polarity of the
current supplied to the electric motor. The motive source 194 may
operate in a single direction such that the retrieval line 168
loops continuously. Thus, the upward leg of the retrieval line 168
corresponds to retrieval of a harness or seat unit, and the
downward leg "deadheads" back to the finishing location for a new
pickup. In such an arrangement, links for connecting to harnesses
or seats may be removable from the line 168.
[0117] Referring to FIG. 17, a line engagement system 196 may
include any structures effectively translating motion of the motive
source 192 into motion of the retrieval line 168. In certain
embodiments, a line engagement system 196 may include a first bank
of sheaves 198 rotating about a first axis 200 and a second bank of
sheaves 202 rotating about a second axis 204, spaced from and
parallel to the first axis 200. The retrieval line 168 may be
reeved between the first and second banks of sheaves 198, 202. The
motive source 194 may provide rotation (directly or appropriately
"geared") to the first bank 198, the second bank 202, or both. In
such an arrangement, the surface area between the line 168 and the
sheaves may be selected to be sufficient to provide adequate
frictional engagement therebetween.
[0118] Referring to FIG. 18, in operation, a method 206 in
accordance with the present invention may begin with the selection
208 of a system 166 comprising one or more cables 12 held in
suspension between first and second supports and a trolley 10
positioned to travel along each cable 12. In selected embodiments,
one trolley 10 may be assigned to each cable 12 and remain secured
thereto. So configured, the possibility of collision is eliminated
as only one trolley 10 is ever applied to a cable 12 in such a
system. Thus, unless and until a trolley 10 is retrieved
(circulated from the finish area 172 back to the start area 170),
no new riders will be sent down that cable 12.
[0119] Once an appropriate system 166 has been selected 208, a user
may be connected 210 to the trolley 10. In selected embodiments,
connecting 210 a user to a trolley 10 may include positioning and
securing a user within a harness or seat suspended from the trolley
10. Following securement 210 of a user in the harness, the trolley
10 may be released 212 to travel along the cable from proximate the
first support (i.e., the start area 170) to proximate the second
support (i.e., the finish area 172). At the finish area 170, the
user may be disconnected 214 from the harness. The trolley 10 and
harness may then be connected 216 to a retrieval line 168 for the
return trip.
[0120] A trolley 10 may be connected 216 to a retrieval line 168 by
any suitable method using any suitable structures. In one
embodiment, a trolley 10 may include a tether connected thereto. A
first end of the tether may connect to the harness suspended from
the trolley 10. A second end of the tether may include a
quick-release hook (e.g., carabiner) providing rapid engagement
with a swivel 190 or interface mechanism 192 of a retrieval line
168. When the first end of a tether is pulled (e.g., by the
retrieval line 168), the tether may lift the harness up toward the
trolley 10. Once the harness cannot be lifted further, additional
pulling of the tether may induce travel of the trolley 10 along the
cable 12. By cinching or lifting the harness, the tether may reduce
air drag as the trolley 10 is circulated back to the start area
170. Also, lifting the harness may reduce flopping and whipping of
the harness during travel. Furthermore, lifting the harness may
facilitate passage of the harness over obstacles such as a starting
gate positioned at the start area 170.
[0121] Once a trolley 10 connected 216 to a retrieval line 168, the
motivator 174 may be activated 218 to draw the trolley 10 along the
cable 12 from proximate the second support (i.e., the finish area
172) to proximate the first support (i.e., the start area 170).
When one or more of the trolleys 10 connected 216 to a retrieval
line 168 activates an end-of-travel sensor 180, the motivator 174
may stop the retrieval line 168. The trolley 10 or trolleys 10 may
then be disconnected 220 from the retrieval line 168 and secured or
prepared for future use 210.
[0122] As stated hereinabove, in selected embodiments, a processor
176 may be programmed to issue, in response to a stop signal, a
reverse command causing the motivator 176 to circulate the
retrieval line 168 in an opposite direction when it resumes
circulation the retrieval line 168. So configured, the engagement
locations (e.g., swivels 190, interface mechanisms 192) between a
retrieval line 168 and a trolley 10 may be securely or even
permanently attached and travel in a cycle from the starting area
170 to the finishing area 172 and back. Alternatively, interface
mechanisms may be clamped and removed readily so the line 168 may
travel with only a loop of one "sense" of direction only.
[0123] Moreover, while one engagement location is stopped at the
starting area 170, another may be stopped at the finish area 172.
Accordingly, in selected embodiments, while one or more trolleys 10
are being loaded 210 with users, other trolleys 10 may be connected
to a retrieval line 168. Also, while one or more trolleys 10 are
pulled from the finish area 172 to the start area 170, other
engagement locations on the retrieval line 168 may be returned to
the finish are 172 to continue the cyclical pattern. So configured,
a trolley retrieval system 166 in accordance with the present
invention may provide a substantially continuous throughput,
minimize operator interaction, and eliminating the risk of
collisions.
[0124] Referring to FIG. 19, a retrieval system 166 in accordance
with the present invention may be configured to service any number
of cables 12. Scaling of such a system 116 may occur in at least
one of two ways. First, multiple loops may be created in a single
retrieval line 186. Accordingly, for a system 166 serving six or
eight cables 12, a retrieval line 168 may include four legs 188 or
portions 188. Each such leg 188 may be positioned to service at
least one cable 12. For example, certain legs 188a, 188d may
service two cables 12a, 12b and 12e, 12f, respectively, while other
legs 188b, 188c may service one cable 12c, 12d, each, respectively.
Second, a retrieval system 166 may include various subsystems, each
in itself being an independent yet cooperative retrieval system
166.
[0125] Referring to FIGS. 20-22, an upper or lower support 224 for
suspending a cable 12 may be configured in any suitable manner. In
selected embodiments, a support 224 may perform at least three
functions, namely anchoring, positioning, and tensioning a cable
12. In one embodiment a support 224 may include a tower 226
positioning a cable 12 at a desired height 228 above the ground 230
or other supporting surface 230. A tower 226 may include a sheave
232 suspended from a sheave mount 234 to engage and support the
cable 12. The height 228 of the cable 12 may be controlled by
altering the height of the tower 226, by altering the length of the
sheave mount 234, or by some combination thereof.
[0126] After passing over the sheave 232 of a tower 226, a cable 12
may extend to an anchor assembly 236. In selected embodiments, an
anchor assembly 236 may include one or more sheaves 238 to redirect
the cable 12, one or more cable clamps 240, and a wrapping post
242. In one embodiments, an anchor assembly 236 may be arranged
such that a cable 12 may pass under a sheave 238a, through a cable
clamp 240, and wrap around a wrapping post 242.
[0127] In certain embodiments, a tension assembly 244 may be
positioned between a tower 226 and an anchor assembly 236. A
tension assembly 244 may deflect the cable 12 to cause relatively
fine adjustments to the tension or suspension shape of a cable 12.
In one embodiment, a tension assembly 244 may include a sheave 246
positioned to capture the cable 12. The sheave 246 may be connected
to an adjuster 248. Accordingly, changes in the length of the
adjuster 248 (e.g., decreases in the length of the adjuster 248)
may deflect the cable 12 from its path otherwise. The greater the
deflection of the cable 12, the greater the increase in tension,
the flatter the suspension shape of the cable (e.g., less sag
between supports 226), or both.
[0128] In selected embodiments, changes in length of an adjuster
248 may be manually induced. Alternatively, changes in length of
the adjuster 248 may be automatically calculated and applied to
periodically or continuously adjust cable tension (e.g., to
compensate for changes in length of the cable 12 due to changes in
temperature and the like). In certain embodiments, an adjuster 248
may be a hydraulic ram.
[0129] If desired or necessary, one or more supports 250 may extend
between a tower 226 and an anchor assembly 236. Such supports 250
may increase the strength and rigidity of the support 224.
Additionally, such supports 250 may facilitate the transfer of
loads imposed on the various structures 226, 236 to underlying
foundation.
[0130] A support 224 in accordance with the present invention may
be positioned at either end of the cable 12. In certain
embodiments, a tension assembly 244 may be positioned at only one
end of a cable 12. Alternatively, when greater adjustment capacity
is desired, a tension assembly 244 may be positioned at each end of
a cable 12.
[0131] During installation and initial suspension of a cable 12,
significant slack of the cable 12 must be appropriately consumed
before the cable 12 may be secured or "tied off." In selected
embodiments, an anchor assembly 236 may support rapid consumption
of slack cable 12. For example, in selected embodiments, an anchor
assembly 236 may include a first sheave 238a receiving cable from a
tower 226. The cable 12 may pass from the first sheave 238a,
through a cable clamp 240, past a wrapping post 242, to a second
sheave 238b. In one embodiment, the various components 238a, 238b,
240, 242 of the anchoring assembly 236 may be secured to an anchor
plate 252, which, in turn, may secure to an appropriate
foundation.
[0132] After passing through the second sheave 238b, a cable 12 may
be pulled 254 in a variety of directions. If desired, the slack of
a cable 12 may be pulled 254 through an anchoring assembly 236 by a
tractor. Thus, the variety of directions at which the cable 12 may
be pulled 254 may allow the tractor to selected the best route for
accomplishing the task.
[0133] Moreover, once a cable 12 achieves a desired suspension
shape, pulling 254 of the cable may cease and the cable clamp 240
may be tightened. Once the clamp 240 is secured, the cable 12 may
be appropriately cut and wrapped around the wrapping post 242. Once
the cable 12 is tied off, the clamp 240 released. The cable 12 will
remain in the desired configuration, as transitioning from clamp
240 to wrapping post 242 requires no guess work or estimates as to
how the shape of the cable 12 will change once the temporary
securement is released.
[0134] In selected embodiments, a tractor or the like may not
provide sufficiently fine adjustment of the suspension position of
a cable 12. In such embodiments, a tractor or the like may draw or
"consume" the bulk of the slack, while leaving the fine tuning of
the suspension to an adjuster 248. That is, before an adjuster 248
is fully incorporated into a tension assembly 244, the adjuster 248
may be fitted with a clamp to engage a cable 12. The adjuster 248
may then incrementally, and with significant precision, pull 254
the cable 12 to a desired suspension shape. Alternating engagement
between the cable clamp 240 of the anchor assembly 236 and the
clamp associated with the adjuster 248, the adjuster 248 may take
multiple "bites" or pulls at the cable 12. Again, once the cable 12
is properly positioned, pulling 254 of the cable may cease. The
cable clamp 240 may be tightened and the cable 12 may be
appropriately cut and wrapped around the wrapping post 242.
[0135] In selected embodiments, once installation of a cable 12 is
complete, the second sheave 238b and cable clamp 240 may be removed
(e.g., unbolted). If desired, the components 238b, 240 may be
re-used on other anchoring assemblies 236 to facilitate
installation and initial suspension of other cables 12.
[0136] The present invention may be embodied in other specific
forms without departing from its spirit or essential
characteristics. The described embodiments are to be considered in
all respects only as illustrative, and not restrictive. The scope
of the invention is, therefore, indicated by the appended claims,
rather than by the foregoing description. All changes which come
within the meaning and range of equivalency of the claims are to be
embraced within their scope.
* * * * *